The bill establishes a new section in chapter 71.24 RCW that grants the Washington State Department of Health the authority to seek approval from the United States Department of Health and Human Services to accredit opioid treatment programs. If approved, the department will be responsible for executing its duties as the accrediting body in accordance with federal policies and procedures. Additionally, the department is tasked with establishing accreditation fees through rule-making, which will include an initial accreditation fee and a renewal fee, set at levels sufficient to cover the costs of the accreditation services.
Furthermore, the bill allows the department to utilize funds from the opioid abatement settlement account to help offset the costs associated with providing these accreditation services. This legislative action aims to enhance the oversight and quality of opioid treatment programs in Washington State by ensuring they meet federal accreditation standards.